Top Free Dispersed Camping near Etlan, VA

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Etlan? We've got you covered. Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Etlan, including photos, reviews, and tips. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Etlan, VA (13)

    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River

    1. South Fork Shenandoah River

    2 Reviews
    12 Photos
    78 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

    2. Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    6 Saves

    A free back country camping permit is required: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/bc-permit.htm

    Shenandoah National Park has 196,000+ acres of backcountry and wilderness and over 500 miles of trails to explore. Backcountry camping is, by its very nature, a primitive experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and challenge of Shenandoah's wild side. Before you head out on your trip, however, be sure that you understand all of the information below so that you'll be prepared to safely discover a brand new world beyond the pavement!

    Each year thousands of people spend a night or more in the Shenandoah’s backcountry. While visitors seek the backcountry for isolation, the cumulative actions of everyone in these areas can have dire effects on the resources we seek to enjoy. We can mitigate these effects by following Leave No Trace principles, as well as observing park backcountry regulations. The following regulations exist to keep Shenandoah's wilderness wild and untrammeled for you and for future generations of hikers and campers.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground

    3. Little Fort Campground

    3 Reviews
    8 Photos
    112 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Gravel Springs Hut
      Camper-submitted photo from Gravel Springs Hut
      Camper-submitted photo from Gravel Springs Hut
      Camper-submitted photo from Gravel Springs Hut
      Camper-submitted photo from Gravel Springs Hut
      Camper-submitted photo from Gravel Springs Hut

      6. Gravel Springs Hut

      1 Review
      17 Photos
      30 Saves

      Gravel Springs Hut is 0.2 mi south of Gravel Springs Gap and another 0.2 mi down

      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Picnic Table
      • Toilets
      Camper-submitted photo from Compton Gap backcountry camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Compton Gap backcountry camping
      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
        Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
        Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
        Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
        • No image available

          10. Switzer Lake

          1 Review
          13 Saves

          This colossal lake is a sight to behold. The surrounding forested mountains appear to just drop into the lake, making for scenery reminiscent of majestic paintings by the late Bob Ross. The lake should be checked during migration and winter for waterfowl. At other times of the year, it could host great blue and green herons and, on occasion, a bald eagle or osprey may drop in to pick out a bass for dinner. The neighboring hillsides are heavily wooded and host many woodland birds. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard as their loud raucous call reverberates across the lake. American goldfinch twitter overhead and ruffed grouse and wild turkey stalk the roadsides. Careful exploration is sure to reward the butterfly enthusiast; tiger and spicebush swallowtail, question mark, silver-spotted skipper, and American painted lady have been spotted here. There is little reason to doubt why they frequent this site as Black Eyed Susan, milkweed, wild columbine, and Queen Anne’s lace abound.

          Note that because this lake serves as the main water supply for surrounding towns, swimming and gas motorboating are prohibited. Camping is restricted to areas further down Skidmore Fork Rd/Switzer Lake Rd with less accessible sites past the second river crossing. Be sure to secure any food overnight as black bears are known to frequent campsites in this area.

          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Dispersed
          • Picnic Table
          • Alcohol
        Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

        Recent Dispersed Reviews In Etlan

        41 Reviews of 13 Etlan Campgrounds


        • hThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Sep. 9, 2024

          South Fork Shenandoah River

          Great site, bad timing?

          The site was wonderful! Not too many spaces so it can fill up quick. There is a launch in the middle, so there is a bit of come and go. The real issue was the land directly across the river that had 20+ people playing loud music at almost all hours. Docked one star for that but everything else was great. Bathrooms had no TP so bring your own, and please remember to pack out your trash! Plenty of firewood from downed trees, sites are dirt which makes staking down easy, but I can imagine it would be muddy if it rains.

          EDIT: I went back early October to possibly camp again, shortly after the hurricane rains had passed. The sites were underwater or filled with river mud, making them completely un-campable. Just keep this in mind when you go out.

        • W
          Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
          Sep. 5, 2024

          Flagpole Knob

          Enjoyed the drive and stay

          I drove to Switzer Lake first and from there stayed on the trail all the way to Flag Pole. The drive took a few hours but was a ton of fun. There are a few good spots up there and it gets fairly busy.

        • SThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
          Jun. 26, 2024

          Flagpole Knob

          They Said....

          They said, no way, I chuckled. They Said , you need a high clearance vehicle, I cleared my throat. They said, you need 4 wheel drive, I SAID "ILL SEND YOU PICTURES!!!" what an Amazing view, don't use me as an example , you definitely should not drive your 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500 159 wb campervan up that road like I did. so now that that's clear how about some pics?.it's absolutely pouring down rain and hail. how about some security cam footage?

        • Sumner C.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Apr. 21, 2024

          South Fork Shenandoah River

          Great view on the river

          The road to get to the campsite was well maintained and easy to get to. Campsites themselves were a tad overgrown but it was the beginning of the season. Seemed to be about a dozen spots to camp. Each site had its own fire pit. Quiet and peaceful.

        • kylie B.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Apr. 18, 2024

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Terrible road to get in

          I drive a low vehicle so it probably wasn’t the best idea to make my way in but i was exhausted and needed to rest a couple days . The road was the worst and really not worth the drive in . The sites were trashy , glass, bullet holes in trees and bullet shells . The sites were fairly decent size but you really have to drive way in to get to them . I won’t stay here again although it was really beautiful on the drive out . The lake is gorgeous .

        • Emil D.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Dec. 31, 2023

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Nice area the camp spots can use some work

          I have been camping here for the past 10 years. Beautiful area and pretty secluded dispersed campsites. Over the years, it seems that some people leave more trash here, but not always. Please do NOT camp next to the lake even if you see fire rings. If the rangers come (which they did twice in 10 years), they will be very upset with you and make you pack up.

          The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots. The road beyond the river can get more tricky for low clearance vehicles.

          There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times.

          The fishing is decent, and we have caught some trout there in the past. There is a boat ramp at the lake, but only electric motors and paddle boats are allowed.

          Just a heads up, there is no cellphone signal for any carrier from what I could tell.

        • TJ W.
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          Nov. 5, 2023

          Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

          Amazing Campsite

          Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site. 1,200ft elevation difference from the trailhead to the site. Cell service at the top (not during the hike or on the road to the trailhead so prepare directions). Went up in November with beautiful weather, fall leaves changing and great company. Couldn’t have had a better experience.

        • N
          Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
          Oct. 13, 2023

          Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

          Hard to find.

          This campsite is another one we found on a list provided by Shenandoah’s park rangers and was listed as moderate hike and easy camping. I think, just like some other on the list, the easy camping might be a slight exaggeration. It was not particularly easy to find and we couldn’t find a super great spot. Good views on the hike.

        • L
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Sep. 18, 2023

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Beautiful area!

          I made a spontaneous trip this past weekend. Easy to find and a beautiful area. Some things to note- the lake front campsites fill up quickly and they are not drive in. Since I sleep in my Jeep, I needed a drive in spot. I drove past the lakefront sites and there are a few really nice spots right past the paved bridge on the dirt road, some next to the creek and some out further. I drove down a path that would not be accessible with a car, however there are spots closer to the dirt road that you don’t need a vehicle with high clearance. I’ll definitely be going back!

        • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Compton Gap backcountry camping
          Sep. 17, 2023

          Compton Gap backcountry camping

          Buggy and damp

          Not our favorite campground. If you’re a through hiker, it’ll get the job done though. There were three other people camping the night we were there. Lots of bugs. Hiked in from the Dickey ridge trail parking lot.

        • Matt M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Jul. 27, 2023

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Beautiful, but...

          My site was great. It was an established site with a fire ring. It had a large clearing with a pretty flat spot for my tent. I accessed the site on my motorcycle. You wouldn't get a car/truck to the site. The trail is only about 30 yards. I am not sure I was in a camping allowed spot though. Some reviews say you have to go farther down the road. So there is that. I need to get more specific guidelines. Regardless, it was a great night if camping. I was pretty discouraged by the amount of trash. I grabbed as much as I could fit, but I didn't have extra bags or extra room, being the bike.

        • D
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Jun. 21, 2023

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Great For No Hassle One-Night Camping

          I only stopped there one night on my way through to Delaware, but it was just what I needed. Great views too, it was quite windy though on the lake. Might be something to keep in mind. Most vehicles should be fine coming in off of 33. From what I hear from another camper, it is rough coming the other way with anything other than something that can scale rocks

        • Matthew F.
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Aug. 31, 2022

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Plenty of spots not near the lake

          We couldn’t find the spots closer to the lake so we ended up alongside a creek further down the road from the switzer. The road is pretty rocky, but nothing crazy.. Take it slow and most vehicles can get by.

          Our site was great and there were plenty to choose from. Where boots and run in to check out the various sites. I’m sure there would be even cooler ones

        • John R.
          Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites
          Aug. 20, 2022

          Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites

          Love this National Forest!

          There are a lot of dispersed camping spots in VA, Especially in this region! I’ve camped all over the area and have seen many amazing sights! This pinned location doesn’t take you to a specific campground tho!

          You’ll have to do some digging (google free camping VA) and you’ll find plenty of spots! Many spots say they charge a fee but don’t as well so be on the look out!

          One of my favorite spots isn’t on The Dyrt but it’s free and in the Bath County area, It’s called Blowing Springs Campground, located near Covington VA. I also recommend seeing Falling Spring Falls almost a 100 Foot waterfall!

          Very hilly roads leading out to this part of the state but beautiful none the less! No cell service but plenty to see!

        • Sydney D.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
          Aug. 4, 2022

          Flagpole Knob

          Awesome

          If you really wanna be alone this is the spot. Camped up there with just my dog and I doubt there was a single person for miles around. The sunset and sunrise views are insane. Made it up in a stock Subaru Outback. Not difficult but definitely need at least a little bit of clearance.

        • C
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake
          Mar. 26, 2022

          Switzer Lake

          Need AWD and some ground clearance

          Good little spot, used to go here a lot in college, the drive in can be done by a sedan but I’d definitely recommend AWD/4WD. Great views of the lake surround by pines, free access, drive through the stream to get to a few popular spots. Like most places, please leave it better than you found it, trash has been an issue

        • Jon N.
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          Feb. 2, 2022

          Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

          My favorite Hike in the area

          I've both day hiked this and backpacked here several times. You will want to drive in and park at the Veach Gap Trailhead which is listed on Google Maps, then follow the trail and make the left when it comes to the intersection. It is about 4 miles up, so not too bad, but there is no water after the first mile. I have seen a small trickle part way up the mountain, but don't count on it. Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning. Once you get to the top there are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking. I've had good luck finding wood from dead trees at the top, but just make sure you're being safe and treating nature kindly. Follow the Leave no Trace rules so the next campers can enjoy this spot too.

        • adrian F.
          Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
          Oct. 22, 2021

          Flagpole Knob

          Perfect overlanding spot

          We had some bad weather but still loved our trip. If you know it’s going to be windy don’t camp at the peak. There’s plenty of camp spots close by with some cover from trees. Very spaced out. Everyone you run into is nice and welcoming. Recommend vehicles with some ground clearance depending on which route you take up. Unbeatable views from the top.

          Also there is raccoons. Tie up your trash and keep your shoes in your tent or vehicle. A few people lost shoes overnight while we were there and found them few hundred yards away.

        • adrian F.
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Oct. 22, 2021

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Fantastic primitive get away

          Great spot to get away. Super peaceful and relaxing. Make sure to secure food trash. Pack in what you pack out and more if possible. We found lots of trash on the trails and at campsites. There’s nothing there so plan ahead for water and bathroom use.

        • Adam G.
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Oct. 7, 2021

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Switzer is my go to spot coming from Harrisonburg!!

          I’ve camped here probably 12 times over the past 2 years and I seem to always find another awesome spot every time I go. There is a huge variety of spots, starting from huge ones right on the lake to more secluded, smaller spots deeper in the woods along the creek. Switzer is a nice quiet place and perfect for big or small groups that never disappoints. It’s also empty on weeknights. Beautiful sunrises from the dam.

        • Jacqueline F.
          Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites
          Jul. 9, 2021

          Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites

          Amazing drive and lots of wildlife

          We only stayed one night, but wish we could have stayed more! The campground offers so many different trails and breathtaking scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As soon as we got there, we saw several deer. I’d almost say they were friendly :) No electric hookups, but the weather was beautiful! We hiked part of the Appalachian Trail which gets pretty steep. I didn’t use the bathrooms or the coin operated showers as we have them in our RV, but they had the services available. It is a drive through the mountains to get to the campsite, but very well worth it for us!

        • Mike C.
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Oct. 18, 2020

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Primitive Fall Fun

          Duration of Stay: Oct 16-18, 2020 Average Daily Temp: 61 Average Evening Temp: 30 On Site Parking: ✅ Potable Water: 🚱 Restrooms: 🚫 Firewood: 🚫 Cell Service: 📵 4x4: ✅ Wildlife and Fishing: ✅

          Amazing place with tons of very primitive spots and privacy. Directions on website are pretty accurate.

          Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road. Go slow as several sharp corners with huge drops and inexperienced drives coming towards you.

          Down the road you will find many spots on your left and your right to tuck back in and call it "home" for a couple days.

          If you travel back to U.S. 33 and drive 9.1 miles West you will find the Brandywine General Store on your left. They have kiln dried firewood, ice, bait, and supplies you may have forgot at home.

          This first come first served location is ideal for off road adventures. Make sure your rig is equipped, this ain't for rookies!

          Would have given this spot a 5 Star if some of the locals understood quiet hours after 10pm and slept past 5am. Be advised, it can get loud at some of the larger sites. Go deeper into the woods if you have the equipment.



        Guide to Etlan

        Camping near Etlan, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

        What to do:

        • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in Shenandoah National Park. One camper mentioned, "Hiking trails leave right from the campground," highlighting the convenience of accessing nature right from your site.
        • Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies. A visitor shared, "We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing," which shows how magical the nights can be.
        • Fishing and Water Activities: Lake Anna State Park is a great spot for fishing. Campers have noted, "The campground was clean & the staff... were all very helpful," making it a family-friendly option for water fun.

        What campers like:

        • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review stated, "The bathrooms and showers are very clean," which is a big plus for those who value hygiene while camping.
        • Spacious Sites: Campgrounds like Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages offer large sites. A camper remarked, "Sites are HUGE... you really feel like you’re camping, not at an RV resort."
        • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray said, "The staff were friendly and great... they let people have fun."

        What you should know:

        • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Mathews Arm Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper noted, "No electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm," so plan accordingly.
        • Crowded Sites: Campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. One camper mentioned, "The sites were all small and very close together," which might not be ideal for those seeking privacy.
        • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are common in the area. A visitor advised, "There are bears so make sure you don't leave any food out," emphasizing the need for caution.

        Tips for camping with families:

        • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One review highlighted, "They offer tons of other adventures like laser tag, arcade, mini golf," at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray.
        • Plan for Amenities: If your family prefers comfort, consider campgrounds with showers and laundry facilities. A camper at Loft Mountain Campground mentioned, "Good clean campsites and showers," which can make a big difference.
        • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the kids entertained with snacks and games. A visitor noted, "The camp store has essentials like firewood, ice, basic gear, and food," which can help if you forget something.

        Tips from RVers:

        • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. One camper said, "We would not have been satisfied with the slope of more than a few of the sites here," so do your research before booking.
        • Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many campgrounds have poor cell service. A visitor at Wolf Gap mentioned, "Verizon was nonexistent," so download maps and information ahead of time.
        • Use Generators Wisely: If you need power, check generator hours. A camper noted, "Generator hours are 08:00-10:00 and 16:00-19:00," which is important for planning your day.

        Camping near Etlan, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Etlan, VA?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Etlan, VA is South Fork Shenandoah River with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

        • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Etlan, VA?

          TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near Etlan, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.